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Create a festive lighthouse at the Whaling Museum on Jan. 2.
PROGRAMS

Holiday Break at the Hatchery

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor hosts a Holiday Break on Jan. 2. Take part in hatchery tour at 11 a.m., trout feeding demonstrations at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and a live animal encounter at 2 p.m. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Festive Lighthouses

Did you know lighthouses were once lit with whale oil? The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor hosts a Festive Lighthouses drop-in workshop on Jan. 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Design and decorate a unique lighthouse of your own — complete with battery-powered tea light and mini wreath — to light up your home this winter.  Admission fee + $10 participant; $5 member. ​No registration required. 631-367-3418

First Steps in Nature

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown continues its First Steps in Nature series for ages 2 to 4 on Jan. 3 at 9:30 a.m. with hands-on exciting activities, crafts, stories and much more. Children will gain a greater appreciation of nature and wildlife while having fun. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Snow Globe Workshop

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St.. Cold Spring Harbor for a Snow Globe Workshop on Jan. 3 at noon or 2 p.m. Have you ever wondered how whales stay warm in freezing waters? Celebrate the wonder of whales and other arctic creatures and explore blubber and bones from our collection. Design and create a wintry whale scene inside of a shimmering snow globe-style craft to take home. Admission fee + $10 participant; $5 member. ​No registration required 631-367-3418

Trout Birthday Celebration

Join the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor for a Trout Birthday Celebration on Jan. 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Meet the hatchery’s baby trout and don’t forget to bring a birthday card! Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on Jan. 6 at 10:30 a.m. Free. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

THEATER

‘Frozen Jr’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents Frozen Jr. from Jan. 18 to Feb. 23. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen Jr. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. Tickets are $25 per person. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Hansel and Gretel’

Theatre Three, 423 Main St., Port Jefferson kicks off the new year with Hansel and Gretel from Jan. 25 to Feb. 8 with a sensory friendly performance on Jan. 26. Go into the woods for an outrageous adventure with the world’s most famous brother-and-sister team, Hansel and Gretel. A feeble father, a wicked stepmother, and a well-meaning if misguided witch add up to hilarious hijinx. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

‘Frozen Jr’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport kicks off the new year with a production of Frozen Jr. from Jan. 25 to March 2. When faced with danger, princesses Anna and Elsa discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. This enchanting musical features all of the memorable songs from the hit Disney film and will thaw even the coldest heart! All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

FILM

‘Spy Kids’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids series with a screening of Spy Kids on Jan. 5 at noon. Nine years ago, top international spies Gregorio and Ingrid Cortez traded the excitement of espionage for the adventure of parenthood. But when they’re called out on a secret mission, the Cortezes are separated from their family and kidnapped by the evil Fegan Floop. Fortunately, there are two people who possess the skills and know-how to reunite the family: Carmen and Juni Cortez, their kids. Rated PG. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children. www.cinemaartscentre.org.

Send your calendar events to [email protected]

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Photo courtesy of Urban Air Lake Grove

Urban Air Lake Grove indoor adventure park hosted a “New Year’s Eve at Noon” celebration and balloon drop to ring in the New Year on Dec. 31, thrilling the hundreds of kids and their parents who came out to ring in 2025 twelve hours early.

More than 2,000 multicolored balloons were released from a net more than 30 feet in the air, cascading down where kids hoisted them in the air like trophies and stomped them in a cacophony that sounded like firecrackers. Urban Air Lake Grove gave out hats and noisemakers to complete the festive atmosphere.

“Kids love it, and it’s a way for them to enjoy New Year’s without staying up until midnight,” said Keith Handler, Co-Founder of Urban Air Lake Grove. “It’s our second year doing it. It’s a really good time.”

This is the second year Urban Air Lake Grove has hosted the balloon drop. It celebrated its five year anniversary as Long Island’s tallest indoor adventure park earlier this year.

“We opened in 2019 and have been investing in the park ever since, with new mini go karts and virtual reality,” said Handler. “We love that we’re here and can give back to the community.”

About Urban Air Lake Grove

Urban Air Lake Grove is Long Island’s tallest indoor adventure park! Attractions include the Sky Rider, a zip-line style attraction with a winding track that carries young thrill-seekers flying along 30 feet in the air; a High Ropes obstacle course, Mini-Go Karts, Flash Pads jumping game, Spin Zone bumper cars, and a full set of rock-climbing walls, wall-to-wall trampoline adventures, and Urban Air’s exclusive Urban Warrior Course™ and Battle Beam.  Urban Air Lake Grove is located at 3147 Middle Country Road, Lake Grove, NY 11755. Phone: (631) 861-4125. Follow Urban Air on Facebook and Instagram on @UrbanAirLakeGrove.

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Image from Vanderbilt Museum

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport presents a special Gesture Drawing children’s workshop with artist Wendy Klemperer on Monday, Dec. 30 from noon to 2 p.m.

Participants will view drawings and sculptures of Klemperer’s exhibition Wrought Taxonomies, practice gestural drawing, and learn about the artistic process of creating sculpture that captures movement and form.

Beth Laxer-Limmer, Director of Education, said, “Working with an artist like Wendy is a rare opportunity for kids who love to draw.  Wendy’s work is wonderfully expressive and serene. Spotting her creatures existing on the property is always thrilling.”

Exclusively for children in grades 5 through 8, the fee is $45, $40 members.

Purchase tickets here.

 

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KEVIN! Catch a screening of ‘Home Alone’ at the Cinema Arts Centre on Dec. 29.
PROGRAMS

Vanderbilt Winter Recess Workshops

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport offers two workshops for winter recess — Bulb Botany & Winter Blooms on Dec. 26 from 10 a.m. to  noon and Solstice Lantern & Planetarium Show on Dec. 27 from 10 a.m. to noon. $20 per child, $18 members. To register, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Holiday Break at the Fish Hatchery

Join Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor for Holiday Break from Dec. 26 to Jan. 2. Click here for the full schedule. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Festive Lighthouses

Did you know lighthouses were lit with whale oil? The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor hosts a Festive Lighthouses drop-in workshop on Dec. 26 and Jan. 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Design and decorate a unique lighthouse of your own — complete with battery-powered tea light and mini wreath — to light up your home this winter.  Admission fee + $10 participant; $5 member. ​No registration required. 631-367-3418

Hanukkah Celebration

Celebrate the Festival of Lights at Global Language Reads, 402 Main St., Port Jefferson with a special Hanukkah event on Dec. 26 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.  Kids will enjoy crafting menorahs, dreidels, and other holiday symbols, followed by a cozy book reading that shares the story and traditions of Hanukkah. $5 per child. glrbooks.com,  631-314-9080

First Steps in Nature

Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown continues its First Steps in Nature series for ages 2 to 4 on Dec. 27 at 9:30 a.m. with hands-on exciting activities, crafts, stories and much more. Children will gain a greater appreciation of nature and wildlife while having fun. $20 per child. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344

Magazine Strip Art for Kids 

Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St.. Setauket welcomes children in grades K through 6 to a Magazine Strip Art workshop on Dec. 27 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Make a silhouette decoration out of recycled magazine strips at Emma Clark Library. No registration required. Open to all. Questions? Email [email protected]

Snow Globe Workshop

Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St.. Cold Spring Harbor for a Snow Globe Workshop on Dec. 27 and Jan. 3 at noon or 2 p.m. Have you ever wondered how whales stay warm in freezing waters? Celebrate the wonder of whales and other arctic creatures and explore blubber and bones from our collection. Design and create a wintry whale scene inside of a shimmering snow globe-style craft to take home. Admission fee + $10 participant; $5 member. ​No registration required 631-367-3418

Candledipping Workshop

Lighten up! Ignite your creativity, roll up your sleeves, and create your own custom, hand-dipped candle with tinted waxes to take home with you at a drop-in Candledipping Workshop at the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor on Dec. 30 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Design a colorful seashell candleholder for your candle to light up your home this winter! See whale blubber and oil from our collection, which were historically used for illumination. Admission fee + $10 participant; $5 member. ​No registration required 631-367-3418

Gesture Drawing Workshop

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport offers a Gesture Drawing Workshop with artist Wendy Klemperer on Dec. 30 from noon to 2 p.m. Participants will view drawings and sculptures in her exhibition Wrought Taxonomies, practice gestural drawing, and learn about the artistic process of creating sculpture that captures movement and form. For kids in grades 5 to 8 only. Tickets are $45, $40 members at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Nautical New Year

Did you know the New Year’s Eve ball is based on an old nautical timekeeping tradition? Join the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor on Dec. 31  at 11 a.m. for a countdown to 12 noon, and enjoy festive self-serve crafts all day during gallery hours. Free with museum admission. 631-367-3418

THEATER

‘Barnaby Saves Christmas’

Celebrate the holidays with Barnaby Saves Christmas at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson from Nov. 23 to Dec. 28. Come join Santa, Barnaby, Franklynne and all of their friends for a wonderful holiday treat. As our littlest elf and his reindeer friend set off on their journey to save Christmas, they meet some new friends along the way and learn the true meaning of Christmas, Hanukkah, and the holiday season. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

‘Frosty’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport celebrates the return of Frosty from Nov. 23 to Dec. 29. Join Jenny and Frosty on their chilly adventures as they try to save the town of Chillsville from Ethel Pierpot and her evil machine that will melt all the snow. Jenny calls on her Mom, the mayor, and all of you to help her save her home and get Frosty to the North Pole. Tickets are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

‘Frozen Jr’

Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 East Main St., Smithtown presents Frozen Jr. from Jan. 18 to Feb. 23. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen Jr. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. Tickets are $25 per person. To order, call 1-800-595-4849 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘Frozen Jr’

The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport kicks off the new year with a production of Frozen Jr. from Jan. 25 to March 2. When faced with danger, princesses Anna and Elsa discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. This enchanting musical features all of the memorable songs from the hit Disney film and will thaw even the coldest heart! All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.

FILM

‘Home Alone’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids series with a screening of the holiday classic Home Alone on Dec. 29 at noon. When mischievous 8-year-old Kevin McCallister acts out the night before a family trip to Paris, his mother makes him sleep in the attic. After the McCallisters mistakenly leave for the airport without Kevin, he awakens to an empty house. Rated PG. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children. www.cinemaartscentre.org

Send your calendar events to [email protected]

 

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Town of Smithtown Sensory-Friendly Movie Night on Dec. 14
Town of Smithtown Sensory-Friendly Movie Night on Dec. 14
Town of Smithtown Sensory-Friendly Movie Night on Dec. 14
Town of Smithtown Sensory-Friendly Movie Night on Dec. 14
Town of Smithtown Sensory-Friendly Movie Night on Dec. 14
Town of Smithtown Sensory-Friendly Movie Night on Dec. 14
Town of Smithtown Sensory-Friendly Movie Night on Dec. 14

The Town of Smithtown Disability Advisory Board hosted a sensory-friendly movie night on December 14, providing an inclusive and welcoming experience for over 100 Smithtown residents. Designed for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families, the event featured a screening of Moana 2 in a relaxed and accommodating environment.

“The success of our sensory-friendly movie night speaks to the importance of fostering events that create opportunities for all residents to feel welcome and comfortable … This is just the beginning, and we look forward to hosting more events that bring families and the community together,” said Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo.

Attendees enjoyed the movie with lowered sound, adjusted lighting, and on-screen captions, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. Each participant enjoyed popcorn, beverage, and a sensory bag filled with tactile and fidget items to encourage sensory stimulation, focus, and relaxation.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with families expressing gratitude for the inclusive event and excitement for future programming. Attendees asked about planning a future event. The common sentiment shared by participants, reflects the success and importance of such community-centered initiatives.

The Disability Advisory Board members, who were present to welcome families and ensure a smooth event, were thrilled to see the joy and engagement of residents. The Board’s mission is to promote inclusion, accessibility, and a supportive environment for all individuals throughout the Town of Smithtown.

Disability Advisory Board Members:

  • Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo
  • Cynthia Grimley
  • Lisa Camastro
  • Alyssa Connell
  • Alex Rupp
  • Christopher Peterson
  • Chris O’Connor
  • Mary Greco

The Town of Smithtown Disability Advisory Board remains committed to creating events and programs that prioritize accessibility, awareness, and inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

For more information on upcoming events or the Disability Advisory Board, please visit the Town of Smithtown’s website or email: [email protected]

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The Northport Historical Society unveiled its Kids Make History Cove on Dec. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
The Northport Historical Society unveiled its Kids Make History Cove on Dec. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
The Northport Historical Society unveiled its Kids Make History Cove on Dec. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
The Northport Historical Society unveiled its Kids Make History Cove on Dec. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
The Northport Historical Society unveiled its Kids Make History Cove on Dec. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
The Northport Historical Society unveiled its Kids Make History Cove on Dec. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
The Northport Historical Society unveiled its Kids Make History Cove on Dec. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
The Northport Historical Society unveiled its Kids Make History Cove on Dec. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
The Northport Historical Society unveiled its Kids Make History Cove on Dec. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
The Northport Historical Society unveiled its Kids Make History Cove on Dec. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
The Northport Historical Society unveiled its Kids Make History Cove on Dec. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli

By Jennifer Donatelli

The Northport Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Dec. 15 at the Northport Historical Society to celebrate the grand opening of its new exhibit, Kids Make History Cove.

With a grant from the Suffolk County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, the historical society created the year-round exhibit which is both fun and educational for young history enthusiasts. Interior designer and business member Elizabeth Olivier volunteered her time to help design the exhibit.

Using the museum’s educational collection and vintage items such as Victorian-era clothing, a rotary phone, a typewriter and a scale, curator Liz Abrams incorporated historical artifacts to teach visitors about Northport’s history.

Executive Director Terry Reid said she came up with the idea for Kids Make History Cove as a way to teach children about Northport’s history while having fun playing with old-fashioned toys.

“This is enriching for parents as well,” Reid said, “because they can enjoy the museum while the kids play in the new exhibit.”

Paula Pangen, visiting from Austin, Texas, brought her granddaughter Cecilia “CiCi” Collaro, 2, from East Northport to play in the Kids Cove.

“She loved playing with the rotary phone and typewriter,” Pangen said.

Visitors got a special treat when Santa stopped by to read “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” and take photos with children. Older kids also joined in the fun by participating in the Elf Scavenger Hunt which had them roaming the gallery to find hidden elves.

Claire Weissman of Northport brought her son, Miles, to see the new exhibit.

“I told Santa I want a Godzilla for Christmas,” Miles exclaimed as he looked for mini elves throughout the museum.

Reid said the scavenger hunt changes with each season and is another way to engage children while teaching them about history.

“They’re getting comfortable in a museum setting and realizing that museums are fun,” Reid explained. “Kids today are very interactive and we wanted to have low-tech toys that are engaging but also allow them to explore on their own.”

Cary Bianculli, director of marketing at the historical society, said the museum is committed to celebrating Northport’s history with its new Northport Notable feature. Each month, the museum will highlight a local historical figure who helped shape the community paired with a special activity for children.

“This month, we’re thrilled to highlight Henry Scudder, a Revolutionary War spy from Northport who played a crucial role in gathering intelligence during the American Revolution,” Reid said.

In honor of Scudder’s adventurous life, the museum is offering a Crack the Code activity where kids can engage in a hands-on game of deciphering secret codes similar to how Washington’s Culper Spy Ring operated to aid the American cause.

Founded in 1962, the Northport Historical Society and Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of Northport and its surrounding communities. The museum, located at 215 Main St., houses permanent and rotating exhibits, educational programs and more than 12,000 documents, photos and artifacts that bring Northport’s history to life for residents and visitors alike.

The next Northport Notable will debut in February, featuring Edna Olmsted, a trailblazer who made history as the first woman to drive a car around the globe.

For more information on the monthly Northport Notables and other events, visit www.northporthistorical.org.

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Photo courtesy of Councilwoman Bonner's office

On December 19, student musicians from the Mount Sinai School District was invited to the Rose Caracappa Senior Center in Mt. Sinai to perform seasonal songs and bring joy to the residents in attendance.

Pictured at far right is Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Jane Bonner, who welcomed the students and helped to spread holiday cheer during the concert. Also pictured (second row) is Santa Claus, who delivered the joy of the holidays to all in attendance.

“Celebrating at Rose Caracappa Senior Center is a most enjoyable way to welcome the holiday season. I wish a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah and a Happy Year to all who attended the concert. It’s a wonderful time to spend with family and friends and I wish all town residents a safe and happy holiday season,” said Councilwoman Bonner.

See a video of the event here, courtesy of Town of Brookhaven.

 

 

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6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon
6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School. Photo by Bill Landon

By Bill Landon

It was the 6th annual Craft and Vendor Fair at Comsewogue High School, Saturday, Dec. 14. The event featured over 50 vendors, student club fundraisers and an opportunity to take a picture with Santa Claus.

— Photos by Bill Landon

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A scene from Lynch Ballet Company's 'The Nutcracker'. Photo courtesy of Lynch Ballet
A scene from Lynch Ballet Company's 'The Nutcracker'. Photo courtesy of Lynch Ballet
A scene from Lynch Ballet Company's 'The Nutcracker'. Photo courtesy of Lynch Ballet
A scene from Lynch Ballet Company's 'The Nutcracker'. Photo courtesy of Lynch Ballet
A scene from Lynch Ballet Company's 'The Nutcracker'. Photo courtesy of Lynch Ballet
A scene from Lynch Ballet Company's 'The Nutcracker'. Photo courtesy of Lynch Ballet

By Jennifer Donatelli

For many, “The Nutcracker” has become a cherished holiday tradition, and the renowned Lynch Ballet Company’s Dec. 14 performance at Huntington High School was no exception. This annual production has become a highlight of the local holiday calendar, bringing families and ballet enthusiasts together to celebrate the season with artistry and joy.

Directed by Artistic Director Karen Lynch, the production featured dancers ranging in age from 4 to 18, whose skill and dedication were evident throughout the performance. Combining detailed choreography, impressive set designs and elaborate costumes, the Lynch Ballet Company delivered a memorable experience that perfectly captured the holiday spirit.

The story of The Nutcracker follows Clara, a young girl whose nutcracker toy comes to life, leading her on a fantastical journey through magical lands filled with living toys and sugarplum fairies. While the narrative has charmed audiences for more than a century, the Lynch Ballet Company brought fresh energy to this timeless tale, grounding it in Huntington’s festive celebrations.

Seventh grader Annabelle Donovan, a student at Finley Middle School, stood out in her first major role as Clara. Her performance highlighted both the innocence and wonder of the character, showcasing Clara’s transformation into the heroine of her own story. “No matter what kind of day I had at school, I know I can come to the studio and just focus on dance. Dancing is my therapy. It makes me forget about everything else going on around me and just makes me so happy,” Donovan said.

Donovan, who has been dancing since age 3, trains three hours a day and says she wouldn’t have it any other way. Her parents, Kelly and David, also joined the production as Party Mom and Party Dad, sharing the stage with their daughter. Kelly Donovan expressed her pride, saying, “She’s worked really hard for many years, and it’s the only thing she does that allows her to express her emotions and identity through dance.”

Artistic Director Karen Lynch highlighted the unique challenges of casting such a pivotal role: “You have to look like a little girl but be old enough to carry the show since the first scene is 20 minutes, and Annie does just that.”

The role of the Nutcracker Prince was played by Jaden Scott, whose performance brought both poise and warmth to the stage, complementing Donovan’s Clara. The lively party scene characters, young mice, Russian dancers and Snowflakes contributed to the production’s energy and appeal.

Senior Julianne Tudisco, who danced the lead role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, was another standout performer. A seasoned dancer since the age of 4, Tudisco has grown up with the Lynch Ballet Company, dancing roles ranging from a mouse to the Snow Queen. “Dancing is a great escape, and I love the music and gracefulness of ballet when I come to the studio,” she said. As she prepares for college, Tudisco says ballet will always be a part of her life.

The production’s artistry extended beyond the dancers to its visually rich sets and costumes. Costume Mistress Madeleine Hindus, a former designer for American Ballet Theatre, brought period-inspired detail to the stage with her meticulously crafted costumes. From Clara’s flowing white dress to the bold, colorful attire of the Russian, Arabian and Chinese dancers, every costume added depth to the storytelling and enhanced the festive atmosphere.

The sets, too, were thoughtfully designed, transporting the audience from Clara’s cozy home to the magical Land of Sweets and the snow-covered kingdom. The growing Christmas tree during the opening party scene drew audible gasps, while the life-sized Nutcracker doll created an eye-catching visual.

For Huntington, this production of “The Nutcracker” is more than just a ballet—it’s a community tradition. Each year, the performance draws local families, friends and longtime ballet enthusiasts together to celebrate the holiday season. The Lynch Ballet Company’s focus on showcasing young talent from the area makes it a point of pride for the town.

As the final curtain fell and the dancers took their bows, the audience’s enthusiastic applause reflected the joy and wonder the production brought to the community. The performance served as a reminder of the power of art to unite people and celebrate the magic of the holiday season.

For more information on the Lynch Ballet Company visit www.lynchballet.com.

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Danny Cappiello's Eagle Scout Project. Photo from Robert DeStefano
Massimo Olson's Eagle Scout Project. Photo from Robert DeStefano
João Ferreira's Eagle Scout project. Photo from Robert DeStefano
Ethan Matz's Eagle Scout Project. Photo from Robert DeStefano
Spencer Aron in front of his Big Adirondack Chair Eagle Scout Project with Port Jefferson-Terryville Chamber President Jennifer Dzvonar at the Train Car Park. Photo from Facebook

By Robert DeStefano

You don’t have to walk too far along the Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail before you notice an Eagle Scout project. Maybe it’s a bench, or perhaps some bat houses. Look closely and you might see the modest plaque that names the Eagle who led each project.

In fact, all around us, local Scouts deliver valuable service projects benefiting various local organizations and our residents at-large. In recent months, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing several of these wonderful implementations of community service in Port Jefferson Station.

Outside Boyle Road Elementary School, João Ferreira’s Eagle Scout project created an outdoor workspace for students and local organizations that use the facility. The concrete work table is roughly 14’ x 6’, offering space large enough for an elementary class to spend time learning in an outdoor classroom. His project complements existing benches in the same space, an earlier Eagle Scout project led by Jordan Roche.

Over at Comsewogue High School, Ethan Matz organized a renovation to room 123, the Courtroom classroom. His Eagle Scout project returned the space to a style reminiscent of its décor a generation ago. Comsewogue alumni may recall the courtroom that served as the classroom for now-retired educator Mr. William Bodkin. The return to that style looks fantastic, and echoes the uniquely American history taught over the years.

At the Comsewogue Community Garden, many volunteers, including several local scouting organizations, have invested time to resurrect the garden. Their efforts have been bearing fruit for a couple of seasons now. With community volunteers regularly working the vegetation, the need for more storage space was addressed through another local Eagle Scout project. Danny Cappiello project-managed the development of a new storage shed at the back of the site. At roughly 100 sq. ft., the additional storage space invites plenty of helping hands who are growing vegetables that help feed others in our community. Volunteers helping volunteers; how wonderful is that?!

Not all Eagle projects are visible in the public, but the value they provide matters to the organizations they support. Within the courtyard at John F. Kennedy Middle School, Massimo Olson has led the charge to build composting bins. The compost from these bins will help feed Jackie’s Garden (in memory of Mrs. Jacqueline Rella, wife of late Superintendent Dr. Joseph Rella), and will provide nutrients for the work of the middle school’s Greenagers club, which recently planted several young trees near the bleachers to share the athletic fields.

Most recently, Spencer Aron unveiled his Eagle Scout Project, a big Adirondack chair painted in red, white and blue for all to enjoy, at the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce’s tree lighting event at the Train Car Park.

Failure to mention how these projects are funded would be an oversight. Scouts working on their Eagle rank are required to project-manage a community service project. That includes not only planning and building, but also fundraising. This is where our wonderful community comes in. When you make a donation or attend an Eagle Scout fundraising event such as hosted by generous local restaurants, this is where your contribution goes. It enables our local youth to execute projects that give back in our local community. It lets them know that our neighbors care and support the service they do as they grow. 

So, in thanking them for their work, we also thank you for supporting them on their Trail to Eagle: a rank only about 6% of Scouts earn, nationwide. An investment in them is an investment in a future that will undoubtedly inspire future leaders in our community!

If you’re interested in signing your child up for Scouting, please feel welcome to contact me at [email protected] and I’ll help you get connected with information and the Pack or Troop in your area.

Author Robert DeStefano is an Assistant Scoutmaster with Scouting America (BSA) Troop 354 and serves as trustee for the Comsewgoue School District Board of Education.

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